Helicopter PilotCategory: Business
Article posted by: Jon Richards
Helicopters are used for three main purposes: business, emergency calls and some leisure flights. Whatever the reason for a flight, skilled pilots will be at the controls. They are tasked with ensuring that passengers, cargo and crew get to their destinations as safely and efficiently as possible.
About an hour before a flight departs a pilot will be:
Filing a file plan.
Checking route detail, flying altitudes and expected weather conditions.
Carrying out all necessary safety and security checks.
Ensuring navigation and operating systems are working properly.
Briefing co pilot.
Supervising refuelling and loading of the helicopter.
Meeting and greeting passengers.
Getting a start-up time from air traffic control and waiting for clearance to move off.
Being alert for suspicious looking items and immediately reporting anything unusual to airport security or police.
Checking for and reporting problems or equipment malfunctions
During the flight, their further tasks include:
Maintaining contact with air traffic control.
Making sure of safety at all times.
Checking data on the helicopter's instruments and monitors.
Liaising with co pilot to ensure passengers are safe and comfortable.
Keeping passengers informed with appropriate announcements.
When the destination is reached, the pilot will:
Land the helicopter with assistance from air traffic control.
Shut off all engines.
Compile a report, documenting any problems or issues encountered during the flight.
There are two types of licence needed by pilots:
1. Commercial Pilot Licence
2. Airline Transport Pilot's Licence.
All pilots have to undergo a Class 1 medical by the Civil Aviation Authority. Further training will be needed for pilots to keep pace with new developments, changes in technology, new rules and regulations, etc.
Strict regulations apply to the working hours of helicopter pilots can fly. Emergency service helicopters can operate at any time of day or night, but business or leisure flights tend to be more in daylight hours.
Helicopter Pilots salaries start around £26000.
Suitable vacancies are usually advertised in Flight International and other trade journals, various company websites, and national press.
Posted By: Jon Richards
Web: http://www.bristoljobs.co.uk
Contact: e-mail
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